Revision as of 15:11, 8 January 2012

Calendula Officinalis

Description

Calendula officinalis may also be called pot marigold and it is a flowering plant that is native to southern Europe and is now cultured in parts of northern Europe and in places where there is warm temperate weather in many countries all around the world.
This plant grows up to 80 cm tall and has branched stems with oblong leaves. The flowers are bright yellow with a ray of bright florets that surround a central disc of florets. Flowers may appear the entire year if the surrounding conditions are right. The florets are edible and may be added to salads. Calendula officinalis is also used as a treatment for many different types of skin disorders and also to reduce various types of pains.

History and Origin

The Calendula officinalis is also called ruddles, common marigold, garden marigold, Scottish marigold, and also English marigold. The use of this herb, aside from cooking and salad preparation is extensively for the herb’s antiviral properties and anti inflammatory properties as well.

Ancient Uses

The flower of the Calendula officinalis was used during the ancient Greek, Roman and Indian civilization as a fabric dye, an additive in various cuisine dishes, and also for cosmetics. Some of these traditional or ancient uses still persist everywhere in many parts of the world today.

Modern Uses

During modern times, the Calendula officinalis plant was seen as a promising treatment for inflammation due this herb’s rather high anti inflammatory properties. This plant is used as a tincture to improve and enhance skin care products that are typically used for acne and many other such skin conditions. It reduces inflammation, controls bleeding and has the ability to soothe tissues as well.
Calendula officinalis is also used as therapeutic treatment to reduce pain of the neck and of the back. It may also help reduce restlessness, headaches, swollen lymph glands and various body pains. This herb is also perfect to cure respiratory infections, coryza and to reduce mucus discharges as well. Calendula officinalis is also known to treat gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, vomiting and heartburn. It is also important in the natural cure for bulimia, menorrhagia and conditions of the uterus.

This herb is also used to treat topical conditions such as skin inflammations, burns, scalds and yellow colored skin. Extracts of this plant are also used as an ingredient in various cosmetics because of the compounds like saponins, resins and essential oils that are present in the herb.

Side Effects

There are no noted side effects of using the Calendula officinalis herb for many types of illnesses. This herb may not have any known side effects caused by its regular use, but if you would like to use Calendula officinalis herb for your particular ailment or illness, it is important to consult with your doctor first to learn about any possible side effects and any adverse drug reactions that may occur with the current medication you may be taking.

This herb is not advised for pregnant and breast feeding women. The use of Calendula officinalis is also not intended for small children and babies. Report any side effects that you may encounter when using herbal remedies like Calendula officinalis to your healthcare practitioner immediately.

There are also no side effects when adding this plant to recipes and salads. It is important therefore to wash the parts of this herb when you want to include this plant for your recipes every day.